'In the form of my life'

The 30-year-old was not surprised by this latest accolade: "Modesty aside, I think it's normal. I had a great season, 2013 was a huge year for me. I deserve the award for my performances with Bayern and France. I'm at my peak and in the form of my life."

It is the third time Ribery has been named as France's finest, after scooping successive titles in in 2007 and 2008. The fleet-footed dribbler has no plans to slow down either. Compatriot Thierry Henry won the award five times during his career, prompting Ribery to delcare: "Now I have to beat his record."